American University fielded its first integrated basketball team in the 1956-57 season and went on to become the NCAA Eastern Champs in 1958 despite challenging playing conditions. Coach Dave Carrasco recruited several local players including Willie Jones and Dickie Wells who excelled both on and off the court to make their coach’s dream to develop a racially integrated basketball program at American University a reality.

Men’s Basketball team 1957-58

Did you know that before Bender Arena opened in 1988, AU played its home games in various locations including the Fort Myer, VA gymnasium?

Fort Myer